Abstract

The emphasis on resolving disputes collectively through the interaction of victim, offender and members of their communities has a long history across Africa. Indeed it is still a dominant focus in justice structures outside of the formal state sector. And since most Africans use non-state justice systems, restorative justice is how most civil and criminal disputes are handled. The agencies using elements of the restorative approach include : customary courts, justice community-based organisations (CBOs), local government structures and work committees. All use restorative justice to varying degrees to resolve both minor and serious disputes within their governance contexts.